Kerpen: History Trail and Routes in the Vulkaneifel

Kerpen can be explored on two scales: with a stroll between the stops on the history trail, or on longer hiking and cycling routes. The Kerpen History Trail is an approximately 1.5-kilometer themed route with 15 stops through the historic town center. Information boards explain the history of Kerpen and its castle. Each stop offers a tangible connection to local history. If you are traveling with children, you can use the boards as conversation starters and explore the subject one section at a time. Signage may change.

Hiking and Cycling Routes in the Vulkaneifel

Marked hiking and cycling options associated with the Vulkaneifel landscape include Stage 8 of the Eifelsteig through the Kerpen area and the Kalkeifel Cycle Route. The latter passes through a geologically varied area with scenic views. This gives you different options for active days: a stage of a hiking trail or a cycling tour through a diverse landscape. The History Trail adds a shorter stroll focused on local history. Check the route and trail markings before setting out.

The “Genuss zu Fuß” Circular Route

If you are looking for a specific hike, “Genuss zu Fuß” is a circular route that starts and ends in Kerpen. The route is 7.5 kilometers long, with a walking time of about 2 hours and 15 minutes. It includes 238 meters of ascent and 238 meters of descent. The route combines marked trails with views of the Vulkaneifel and passes through woodland and juniper heathland. There are also places to stop for refreshments along the way. Compared with the History Trail, it is the longer hiking option, with a stated walking time and elevation gain. Trail conditions and businesses serving refreshments may change; check locally before setting out.

Stopping for Refreshments in Loogh

The route connects Kerpen with nearby Loogh and the Gröner Hof. There, you can stop at a cheese dairy, a restaurant, and a farm shop. This offers a practical way to combine hiking with regional products and a meal or refreshments. Check the businesses’ opening hours before planning your visit.

Plan Your Stay Around the Routes

These options offer different things to focus on. Families can weigh up the History Trail and the longer hike and consider which distance suits their plans. If you would like to combine several activities, the routes described also provide clear themes for your stay: local history, hiking, and cycling.

Getting There and Getting Around

Bus route 538 from Hillesheim ZOB serves Fritz-von-Wille-Straße. Parking is indicated at Kleines Landcafé and the reservoir. If you are planning to travel by bus or park, check the service and parking options before your trip. This will help you tailor your plans to the intended starting point and the activity you have chosen, without treating the different routes as a single excursion itinerary.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Bolsdorf, Basberg, Wiesbaum, Loogh, Dohm-Lammersdorf, Berndorf, Üxheim, Oberbettingen.

For the main travel overview: Hillesheim.